In a bid to strengthen grassroots security and improve intelligence gathering, Kenya has developed a strategy that enlists the participation of village elders, Nyumba Kumi, local administrators, and security committees.

Already, a plan for village elders to be recognized by the government is underway and will include a monthly stipend.

This inclusive framework aims to bridge the gap between communities and law enforcement by tapping into local knowledge and fostering collaboration.

By integrating traditional leadership structures into the national security apparatus, security experts say the government seeks to address emerging threats more effectively, enhance community trust, and create a more proactive response to crime and insecurity.

The new strategy gives more power to Regional and County Security and Intelligence Committees (RSICs/CSICs), it has been established.

These multi-agency teams have quietly started working in every corner of the country, and are being touted as Kenya’s first line of defense in maintaining peace and order.

“The strength of Kenya’s security lies in its ability to adapt,” explains Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo.

“RSICs and CSICs bridge the gap between the national strategies and the realities on the ground, ensuring tailored solutions for local challenges.”

But how do these committees work, and what makes them indispensable?

According to a report by the National Crime Research Centre (NCRC), majority of Kenyans believe administrators who are part of this new strategy have roles to play in crime and security management.

“On specific roles played by the administrators, members of public opined that chiefs and assistant chiefs played a critical role in, security coordination,” reads the report.

In a country as diverse as Kenya, security experts Maina Mugweru says security cannot be a one-size-fits-all affair.

“Kenya’s security challenges vary from region to region, and a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work,” he says. “The complexities of our diverse communities, with their varying cultural, geographical, and social dynamics, demand tailored solutions that involve local leaders, law enforcement, and the community in a more coordinated, context-specific manner.”